SERDANG, Nov 12 – The Organic Unit of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), organized a Children Organic Education Programme for Healthy Food to give them an early exposure on the importance of environmental-friendly agriculture activities.

Head of Programme, Dr. Martini Mohammad Yusoff said that the children were exposed to ways to prepare organic plant materials, including compost, harvesting and handling of crops for healthy consumption.

He said organic planting also encompassed organic farming methods which were 100 percent chemical- and pesticide-free.

Pioneer of Organic Unit, Agriculture Faculty of UPM, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siti Hajar Ahmad said the significance of consuming organic food had gained importance among members of the public.

“The people now see that eating food that is planted organically is much better and safer for their health and the quality is also intact and guaranteed,” she said.

She also said the activities held for the kids not only exposed the children to the importance of healthy food but also easy methods of organic cultivation, besides allowing them to enjoy the pollution-free natural green surrounding.

A mobility student from China Yantzen University, Chen Mengyuan, 19, said taking part in the programme had provided him with new experiences and knowledge.

“We don’t have such an activity in my country, and I really hope that I will be able to teach the children in my country organic cultivation for the benefit of all,” he said.

The one-day programme, organized for the second time, received overwhelming response from parents of children, too. It took off with lively activities – preparation of land for cultivation, followed by planting of vegetables and visits to the compost-making and preparation sites. – UPM.